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Tuesday, August 27, 2013

DEVELOPING: Israel Preparing for Syrian Attack

Against the background of an impending Western strike in
Syria, and facing concerns of Syrian retaliation against Israel, Israeli top
brass issued forceful warnings to the Assad regime on Tuesday.

"Those who dare to test us will encounter the IDF 's
might," Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon said. "Facing the storm, the
IDF's spirit is no less strong."

Ya'alon's statements echoed similar remarks made by Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday. The minister also addressed the recent
chemical attack in Damascus' suburbs, allegedly performed by Assad forces.

"I'm certain that every human being was shaken by the
images of children lying dead or convulsing in pain after Assad's forces used,
and not for the first time, chemical weapons," he said.

Speaking at a Givati Regiment memorial service, Chief of
Staff Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz said that "those who wish to harm us will find
that we're sharper and more determined than ever.

Our enemies must realize that
we're ready and willing to defend our citizens with whatever means necessary,
facing any threat and every scenario."

"We'll not encourage bellicose sentiments in our
midst," he added, "but our defensive duty will be realized by the
IDF."

Earlier, the two and Prime Minister Netanyahu participated
in a special meeting held in the Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv to discuss the
Syrian crisis and Israeli readiness ahead of a Western strike.

After the meeting, Netanyahu said: "The State of Israel
is ready for every scenario. We're not part of the Syrian civil war, but if
we'll spot an attempt to harm us we'll respond with great force."

According to Israeli forecasts, the US will alert Israel
before an operation. In the meantime, the IDF raised the alertness level in
northern Israel.